Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 quick and delicious instant potato recipes! Instant potatoes are a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of dishes, from comforting side dishes to savory main courses. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, we’ve got you covered.
From creamy soups to crispy pancakes, our collection of recipes showcases the versatility and flavor of instant potatoes. With minimal prep time and no special cooking skills required, these recipes are perfect for busy home cooks or those new to cooking.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering instant potato recipes that are sure to become family favorites. So grab a fork and let’s dig in!
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
A rich and savory twist on classic mashed potatoes, these garlic parmesan mashed potatoes are perfect as a side dish or topped with crispy chicken or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, milk, and butter. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Instant Potato Casserole
This recipe takes the humble instant potato to new heights by loading it up with creamy cheese, savory bacon, and a crunchy topping. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant mashed potatoes
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup of milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together melted butter, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped scallions.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the mashed potatoes and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with additional shredded cheese and a sprinkle of paprika.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Instant Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup made with instant potatoes, milk, and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a quick lunch solution.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup instant mashed potato mix
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the instant mashed potato mix and whisk until smooth.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the butter and milk until well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this comforting recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Thinly sliced potatoes, rich cheese, and a hint of butter come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and salt. Mix until the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Create a layer of potatoes in the dish, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Pour milk over the final potato layer, making sure they’re fully saturated.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Instant Potato Pancakes
Say goodbye to boring breakfasts with these fluffy and flavorful Instant Potato Pancakes. Made with just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying morning meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Optional: chopped herbs or scallions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine instant mashed potatoes, flour, and salt.
2. Beat in the egg until well combined.
3. Add the melted butter and mix until smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as syrup, honey, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Elevate your potato salad game with the addition of crispy bacon and tangy ranch seasoning! This recipe is perfect for a backyard BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning.
4. Add the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Potato Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized potato treats infused with spicy jalapeño flavor. Perfect for game day gatherings or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, cheese, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add jalapeños and mix until potatoes are evenly coated.
4. Place potato mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and toss to coat.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Instant Potato Dumplings
Elevate your meal with these soft and fluffy dumplings infused with the warmth of herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish, they’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups instant mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the instant mashed potatoes, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Gradually add in the olive oil until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small dumplings (about 1-inch diameter).
4. Place the dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Potato and Cheese Pierogi
These classic Polish dumplings are filled with a delicious blend of mashed potatoes and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
– Water, for boiling
– Pierogi dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash.
2. Mix the mashed potatoes with butter, cheese, egg, and flour. Season with salt.
3. Divide the pierogi dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles of dough. Place a tablespoon of the potato-cheese mixture in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-circle shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the pierogi and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Instant Potato Gnocchi
Need a delicious and comforting Italian-inspired dish in no time? This recipe uses instant mashed potatoes to make soft and pillowy gnocchi that can be ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant mashed potato mix
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant mashed potato mix, flour, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the egg and mix until a dough forms. If needed, add a little water to achieve the right consistency.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired gnocchi size.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into disks. Place the gnocchi onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Serve with your favorite sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Potato Bread
This hearty bread combines the comforting flavors of potatoes, herbs, and cheese to create a delicious accompaniment to any meal. Perfect for sandwich wraps, croutons, or served alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until the potato mixture is smooth.
4. Add flour and yeast; mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Potato and Leek Gratin
This rich and comforting side dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. Thinly sliced potatoes and caramelized leeks are layered with creamy cheese and baked until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the sliced leeks in butter until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of leeks, followed by a layer of potatoes, and so on, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Pour the heavy cream over the potatoes, then sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Quick Potato and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of comforting potatoes and sweet corn, ready in just 20 minutes. It’s an ideal solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the corn kernels and diced potato; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and milk; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chowder cook for 10-12 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Potato Wedges
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the earthy flavor of rosemary with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut potatoes into wedges and place in a bowl.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
4. Pour the mixture over the potato wedges and toss until they’re evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the potato wedges in a single layer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Potato Samosas
Samosas are a popular snack or appetizer in many Indian and Pakistani cuisines, typically filled with spiced potatoes and peas. This recipe uses instant mashed potatoes to simplify the process and creates a delicious and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup of peas and carrots
– 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon of cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Pastry wrappers (available at most grocery stores or online)
Instructions:
1. Mix the instant mashed potatoes with peas and carrots, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt.
2. Lay a pastry wrapper flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a triangle or a cylinder shape.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the samosas until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
6. Drain the samosas on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including frying time).
Cheesy Potato Stuffed Peppers
Add a twist to traditional stuffed peppers by incorporating creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut the tops off peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
4. Stuff each pepper with mashed potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Potato and Spinach Frittata
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. This Potato and Spinach Frittata is an easy-to-make and satisfying option for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potato and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Pour the whisked eggs over the potato mixture and cook until the edges start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Potato Latkes
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and flavorful potato latkes, perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. This classic Jewish recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten egg to the potato mixture and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Potato and Sausage Skillet
A comforting one-pot meal perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner, this potato and sausage skillet is packed with flavorful goodness. With smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and savory aromatics, you’ll want to come back for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Casserole
Get ready for a classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for the holidays! This sweet potato and marshmallow casserole is a twist on the traditional marshmallow casserole, adding natural sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the sweet potatoes in their skins for about 45 minutes, or until soft.
3. Scoop out the flesh and mash with sugar, heavy cream, salt, and cinnamon.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans (if using).
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the mashed sweet potatoes and marshmallow mixture in an alternating pattern.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your potato game with these 20 mouth-watering instant potato recipes! From classic comfort food to creative twists, there’s something for everyone. Whip up Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes or Loaded Instant Potato Casserole for a comforting treat. Or try Creamy Instant Potato Soup, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, and more innovative dishes like Spicy Jalapeño Potato Bites and Herbed Instant Potato Dumplings. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, cheesy, or sweet, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
